HOW TO GET TO SAN BLAS
Planning a trip to San Blas? Compare the 4x4 road transfer from Panama City to Cartí, flights to El Porvenir, and the best ways to reach the islands.
Arriving in San Blas from Panama City
All departures to San Blas leave from Panama City. We recommend arriving at least one day early to avoid unexpected delays. Transfers depart early in the morning, with two main options available:
Welcome toSAN BLAS
Although most travelers search online for “San Blas Islands,” the official name of the region is Guna Yala (formerly written as Kuna Yala).
The Guna people are the native inhabitants of this archipelago and have lived here for centuries, preserving their language, traditions, and governance.
Who Are the + Guna People ?
In 1925, after the Guna Revolution, they gained political and cultural autonomy from Panama. Today, Guna Yala remains one of the most well-preserved Indigenous regions in Central America.
In the next sections, we’ll cover the details of how to get to the San Blas Islands and plan your trip
How to get to san blas By road (4x4) + speedboat
Explore the 4x4 ROAD TRIP
This is the most popular way to reach the port. A shared 4x4 jeep will pick you up from your hotel between5:00 AM and 5:30 AM.
The drive takes approximately 3–4 hours. through the jungle-covered hills of Guna Yala.
Once you arrive at the Cartí port, you’ll continue your journey to the San Blas Islands by small motorized boats (lanchas), reaching your island or sailing charter in about 20–45 minutes.
Check-in time is approximately 10:00 AM.
How to get to san blas by airplane
The Luxury flight
For those who prefer a 40-minute aerial masterpiece over a 3-hour drive. Flights depart from. Albrook Airport (PAC), not Tocumen.
- Departure: Albrook PAC Terminal
- Airstrips: Corazón de Jesús
- Limit: 12-15kg strict luggage weight
Fly to San Blas From $400/ guest
Estimated One-Way
Border Logistics
Bureaucracy meets paradise.
Physical Passport
No photocopies. No digital IDs. You must present your original physical passport at the border checkpoint.
Cash-Only Economy
There are zero ATMs in Guna Yala. All entry taxes, boat transfers, and island drinks must be paid in USD cash.
2026 Entry Taxes
- Foreigners: $22 USD
- Residents: $12 USD
- Port Fee:: $2 USD
No hidden fees.
Best Way to travel to San Blas Islands, Panama
Ask nomad sailors
Need specific answers for your 2026 trip to San Blas? Ask our experts about Guna rules, weather, or logistics.
THE DIFFERENCE
Metric
4x4 Road
pRIVATE aIR
Cost per person
$150 (Round-Trip)
$550+
Itinerary
2.5 - 3 Hours
40 Minutes
Vibe
Rugged / Winding
VIP / Scenic
Comfort Level
Standard Pack
15kg Strict
Frequent Inquiries FAQs
Click to explore the most frequently asked questions about how to get to San Blas.
Can I get to San Blas by ferry?
No. There is no public ferry service. You must take a 4×4 vehicle to the port and then a local boat (lancha) or fly directly.
Can I travel in my own vehicle?
Yes, but it must be a 4×4. You will have to pay the vehicle entrance and parking fee at the Port of Cartí and hire the boat separately to take you to your vessel.
What is the best way to get to San Blas?
It depends on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for affordability and adventure, the 4×4 + speedboat option is ideal (from $150 USD round trip). If you prioritize comfort and speed, a private plane is the best option (from $400 USD per person).
Do I need to arrive in Panama City on the same day as departure?
No, we recommend arriving at least one day early to avoid unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or traffic. Departures to San Blas are very early in the morning (5:00 am).
What time do I arrive at the catamaran or sailboat?
Check-in time for sailboats and catamarans is approximately 10:00 AM. The exact time will depend on the type of vessel and the island where it will be located on the day of check-in.
Do I need a 4x4 to drive myself?
Yes. Guna authorities checkpoint at the mountain entrance will only permit 4×4 or high-clearance SUV vehicles. Sedans are strictly prohibited.
Are there flights from Tocumen (PTY)?
No. All domestic flights and charters for San Blas depart from Albrook Airport (PAC) on the other side of Panama City.
Do I need a passport to travel to San Blas?
Yes, it is mandatory to carry a passport or Panamanian identity document to cross the border into Guna Yala territory.
Does Nomad Sailors arrange transport?
Yes, Nomad Sailors coordinates your entire transfer to San Blas with reliable local companies, from your hotel in Panama City to your vessel. You just have to choose your preferred option.
How much baggage can I take?
If you’re traveling by 4×4 and speedboat, there’s a 13 kg limit per person for soft-sided bags (speedboats have their own weight restrictions). For private flights, check the limits based on the aircraft you’ve chartered.
Are entry taxes included in the transport price?
No. Taxes are paid in cash on the day of travel: $23 USD for foreigners or $8 USD for residents if traveling by land; $20 USD + $12 USD airport taxes if traveling by plane. Children up to 9 years old enter San Blas free of charge.
How do I navigate between zones?
The archipelago is divided into navigation zones. Most day trips stay in the ‘Cayos Limones’ zone, while multi-day charters head to the ‘Cayos Holandeses’ or ‘Coco Bandero’ for clearer water.
Are there specific times to enter and leave San Blas?
Yes, the Guna community has strict entry and exit times for the archipelago that must be respected, as well as the check-in and check-out times for the boats.
What should I pack for the trip?
Passport, cash for taxes, light and comfortable clothing, sunscreen, motion sickness pills, waterproof bags to protect your luggage, and water/snacks for the journey.
Are there gas stations on the way to San Blas?
There are gas stations on the way to Puerto Cartí.
How safe is the road to San Blas?
The road is safe and in very good condition, but keep in mind: the route crosses the Panamanian jungle and has many sharp curves, ascents, and descents. Therefore, access is only permitted in 4×4 vehicles, always respecting the speed limit.
Can I bring food and drinks on public transport?
Yes, it’s definitely advisable to bring water and snacks for the trip. Although the vehicles do make a stop along the way where you can have breakfast and buy food and drinks before arriving at the port.
Do children pay the same transport price?
Children up to 5 years old travel free by boat, but they do pay for car transportation ($70 round trip per child occupying a seat in the car). Children under 9 years old do not pay the Guna Yala entry tax (although they do pay airport taxes if traveling by plane).
What happens if I arrive late to the pickup point?
It’s very important to be punctual, as the groups depart precisely at 5:00 am and the Guna community has strict schedules. If you arrive late, you could miss your ride and need to arrange (and pay for) a new one. Therefore, we recommend being ready at least 10 minutes early.
Is it possible to get there by boat from another point in Panama or the Caribbean?
No, all transport to San Blas departs from Panama City; however, it is possible to reach the Corazón de Jesús airport in San Blas on private aircraft from other destinations such as Bocas del Toro, for example, but it is a rather expensive and uncommon route.
Where do you leave your car when you arrive in Cartí?
There are secure parking lots near the port of Cartí where you can leave your vehicle while you explore the islands. The cost is around $5 USD per day.
What if my international flight arrives in Panama City after 5:00 am? Can I go to San Blas the same day?
- If you’re traveling by private plane: Yes, you can reach San Blas the same day, although you’ll need to change airports. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to arrive after an international flight.
- If you want to travel by 4×4 + speedboat: The land + sea transfer requires you to be ready at the airport gate no later than 6:00 am to ensure you arrive on time for the catamaran. (After that time, it is possible to arrange a transfer with a private car + private speedboat, but this depends on boat availability and additional costs.)